Cream Cheese Danish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cream Cheese Danish is a classic pastry that combines flaky, buttery layers with a rich, sweet cream cheese filling. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this treat is irresistibly creamy and slightly tangy, with just the right touch of sweetness. It’s a bakery favorite you can easily make at home.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)cream cheesegranulated sugareggvanilla extractlemon juicelemon zestpowdered sugarmilk (for glaze)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.

Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut into rectangles or squares.

Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square.

Fold the corners slightly inward or leave open for a rustic look.

Beat the egg and brush it over the exposed edges of the pastry for a golden finish.

Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Let the pastries cool slightly.

Prepare a glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled pastries.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 pastries.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15-18 minutes
Cooling and glazing time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add a dollop of fruit preserves or fresh berries before baking for a fruity twist.
Use orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
Add a few mini chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise.
Use crescent roll dough for an even quicker preparation.

storage/reheating

Store Cream Cheese Danish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
Avoid microwaving as it may make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, but store-bought works great for convenience and consistent results.

Do I need to chill the pastries before baking?

Chilling for 10–15 minutes can help them hold their shape better in the oven.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze unbaked Danish and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I make these without lemon?

Yes, the lemon adds brightness but can be omitted or replaced with vanilla or almond extract.

Why is my filling runny?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and not overmixed to avoid a watery texture.

Can I double the filling for extra richness?

Yes, but be careful not to overfill or it may spill out during baking.

Are these good for brunch?

Absolutely—serve them warm with coffee or tea for a perfect brunch option.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Mascarpone or ricotta can be used but may change the texture and flavor.

Can I make them the night before?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, their creamy sweetness and fun shape make them a hit with kids.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Danish brings the elegance of a bakery treat into your own kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast, a casual gathering, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these pastries are sure to impress and delight.

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